Swamp Thing is a character that has had a rich history full of different interpretations. With the likes of Alan Moore, Grant Morrison, Mark Millar and Brian K. Vaughan having taken turns writing the character, Scott Snyder joins the list to bring Alec Holland and Swamp Thing back into the DC Universe.
The Good
Despite having his roots (no pun intended) in the actual DCU, Swamp Thing fit in better being published through Vertigo. The stories had a darker tone that were a little too intense for the regular DCU. Since Brightest Day brought Swamp Thing back into the DCU, the big question was could Swampy fit in? From page one, Scott Snyder shows the answer is a big yes.
We see some cameos that almost feel like shameless plugs at other big DC characters but it's a great way to start Swamp Thing in the "New 52." Basically there are some forces at work involving Swamp Thing and the other characters are feeling and seeing some of the effects. This serves to establish that, yes, Swamp Thing is back. It's a great way to reassure us that even though these characters might be going through some changes, this is still the DC Universe. The characters are still the same to their core.
As Alec Holland narrates or gives his inner monologue, Snyder shows off his knowledge of botany and all things plant related. He brings up ideas that you might not normally think of. These little details add to Holland's character and makes him feel more...real. We also get reassurance that past events still happened. Holland is visited by one of the superheroes that put in a cameo to discuss how he is coping with his return. At first it felt as if the character was almost bullying Holland to find out if he knew anything about the the recent natural disturbances. It does serve to keep Holland connected to the heroes even if he insists he now has nothing to do with Swamp Thing.
Of course this isn't an entire issue of Holland trying to live a normal life while sharing his deep knowledge of natural home remedies. There are indeed some dark forces brewing. You have to remember that this is coming from the mind of Scott Snyder. He has a tendency to bring comics to that dark level that keeps you on the edge of your seat. There is a scene that gets a little gruesome but serves as a great indicator of what levels of evil we can expect.
The Bad
I'm a little torn about how big of a role I want Swamp Thing to have in the DCU. Part of the fun will be seeing how far Snyder can bring that character within the confines of this universe. The addition of the superhero cameos felt a little forced in the beginning but you do see the importance in establishing that Swamp Thing is back in the DCU. It's necessary to remind us of the new status quo.
Yanick Paquette does a great job on the art except the jaw on Superman looked a little weird. Other than that, he does a great job and I especially enjoyed the use of shadows when Holland was at a construction site talking to one of the heroes. Paquette also shows us his ability to draw plants and flowers, something he will be doing a lot of in the coming months.
The Verdict
Swamp Thing back in the DC Universe seemed like a strange idea but Scott Snyder and Yanick Paquette are making it work. Snyder establishes Holland's character and his depiction fits in perfectly with what you would expect from his first appearance. From the very first page we see that Swamp Thing is part of the DC Universe and also are reassured that the "New 52" hasn't wiped out recent events involving Swamp Thing (in other words, his return in Brightest Day). Alec Holland is separated from Swamp Thing which gives the big question of what direction this title will go. Snyder's use of dark tone quickly establishes that this will not be a bright and cheerful book full of superheroes in tights (or armored suits). There are some creepy forces at work here (in the comic, not the creative team) and it is going to be enjoyable to see just how far into the darkness Snyder can take this series. The series is accessible to new readers. Through Holland's inner monologue, conversation and a tiny flashback, you get the full story of Alec Holland and Swamp Thing. Those that have never read an issue of Swamp Thing will have no problem jumping right in. Snyder has expressed his love for the character numerous times and has big plans for Swamp Thing. There's no telling what he has up his sleeve.